Falling for Brown
Fashion within Graceful Living
In Graceful Living, fashion isn’t about chasing trends or filling closets, but about the little choices that help us feel grounded, confident, and fully present in the everyday.
I’ve found that how we show up — whether it’s in cozy knits, a favorite pair of jeans, or something a little more polished — can shape the way we move through our day. The right outfit won’t magically solve life’s challenges, but it does have a way of lifting our spirits, sparking confidence, and helping us lean into whatever’s ahead with more energy and joy. When Graeme was going through chemo I deemed chemo day as a great day for sweats - he had another school of thought all together - “Look good, feel good!”. So Tuesdays became a day we showed up our very best and I have to say, it was the right choice. (Though I still love my loungewear and typically change into a set the very first chance I get!)
My Philosophy on Shopping
I love to shop, and you’ll definitely see me picking up pieces throughout the year—but I’ve learned that the way I shop makes all the difference. I aim to have an intentional, seasonal approach that helps me curate a wardrobe I truly love and wear.
Typically, in the fall and spring, I take stock of my closet: I assess what needs to be donated, repaired, or retired, and I identify gaps I might want to fill. I also pay attention to trends, trying on pieces to see which ones really suit my body type and personal style. (This year, for example, the beautiful bucket jeans look stunning on everyone else—but not on me! Instead, I’m embracing the gorgeous brown tones that are trending, more on that below.)
When I shop seasonally, I focus on larger, intentional purchases that allow me to build full outfits. This way, I know each piece fits together, works for the season, and makes me feel good. The result is a wardrobe that’s ready to wear, stylish, and thoughtfully curated—rather than a collection of random items.
Shopping as I go often left me with a spotty wardrobe. I’d struggle with what to wear, spend more time deciding, and make unintentional purchases. My seasonal approach does mean I sometimes spend more in a single purchase or month—but in the long run, I spend less overall, because I’m not constantly tempted by impulsive buys. I always have a well-rounded collection waiting for me.
For me, shopping is no longer just about the thrill of finding something new—it’s about intentionality, joy, and confidence in the pieces I choose. It’s about creating a wardrobe that works for me, my life, and my style.
My Must Have Color!
This season, brown is having a beautiful moment — and I couldn’t be more excited. From soft knits in cinnamon tones to polished leather in espresso hues, brown feels like the perfect color story for fall: natural, warm, and effortlessly chic. These shades are timeless, grounding, and somehow luxurious all at once — exactly the kind of beauty I want to weave into Graceful Living.
And it’s not just clothes! After listening to my friends at the Under the Oaks podcast, I swapped out my black mascara for brown — and wow. Total game changer. They say most people should actually be wearing brown mascara, and I have to admit, it’s softer, warmer, and somehow makes me look more awake. If you want to hear it for yourself, you can listen here. And fun side note: I was so honored to join them for podcast number 12!
So, in the spirit of savoring the season, I’ve gathered my Top 10 Fall Brown Classics — pieces (and little swaps!) that feel versatile, polished, and wearable year after year. Think of them as those anchors in your closet and routine that make getting ready feel simple yet special.
These are the pieces I’ll be reaching for again and again this fall. Brown may feel simple, but there’s a richness and warmth in these shades that makes everyday dressing feel intentional, grounding, and beautiful.
xo,
Christina
P.S. I’ll include a few affiliate links for the items I use and love — but my hope is that the real inspiration comes from the activity itself: showing up with intention, embracing beauty in the everyday, and weaving joy into even the simplest routines.
